To understand the emergence of movement patterns and behavior, we investigate the interaction between (mechanical) properties of the musculoskeletal system and patterns of neural activation within the spinal cord. Understanding (the development of ) human movement and behavior is important to develop diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions for people to live independently and comfortably.

We investigate...

... the physiological and patho-physiological development of human movement and behavior. Central to our work is our interest in the interplay between biomechanics and motor control. Studying motor impairments due to musculoskeletal pain, neurodegenerative disease, or cognitive/psychological conditions is one way to gain a better understanding. We also study early-child development of first motor skills and abilities. To help answer our research questions we measure and analyze kinematic, kinetic, and neurophysiological aspects of movement in our laboratories. We develop computational models to help explain experimental findings and so better understand the complex neurophysiology of the spinal cord.

Computational Modeling

We are developing various models of the musculoskeletal system, ranging from models describing single muscular contractions, antagonistic muscles acting at a single joint, up to complex 3D models of the human body NeuroBoB.

Computational Neuroscience

To understand the function of the neural control system, we developed a computational model for the nociceptive and proprioceptive afferent information processing to understand the reorganization of the sensory cortex. Furthermore, we are developing computational model to describe the neural motor control of human movements.

Handcycle settings and their effects on efficiency and propulsion technique

Here we investigate the effects of different handcycle settings on the efficiency and propulsion technique during handcycling. In order to do so we analyze kinetics, kinematics, physiological parameters and muscle activation patterns.